Should You Hire a Wedding Planner? Here’s the Honest Truth

Weddings are fun. Planning one? Not always. Somewhere between picking napkin colours and figuring out how to seat divorced relatives, a lot of couples start to wonder — should we just hire a planner?

It’s a fair question. And the answer really depends on who you are, how much time you’ve got, and whether you want someone else to wrangle spreadsheets while you enjoy your engagement.

Let’s talk through the real pros and cons, minus the fluff.

The Upside (aka Why a Wedding Planner Might Be the Best Thing Ever)

1. You Can Breathe Again

No more stressing over timelines or whether you forgot to book the chairs. A planner handles the boring (but crucial) stuff, so you can get excited about the fun bits again.

2. They Know People

A good planner has a phone full of trusted suppliers. You won’t need to Google "local DJ who won’t ghost us" or read 47 caterer reviews. They’ll connect you with people who actually show up and do a great job.

3. They Catch the Things You’d Never Think About

Ever considered what happens if your cake melts in the sun? Or who’s cueing the music for your walk down the aisle? They have — and they’ve got a plan for it.

4. They Keep You on Budget (No, Really)

It sounds backward, but paying someone to help you not overspend can be a lifesaver. They’ll steer you away from wedding money pits and help you put your budget where it matters most.

5. You Get to Be Present on the Day

When the big day arrives, you shouldn’t be answering texts about seating plans or dealing with a missing tablecloth. A planner is your behind-the-scenes ninja. You just show up, smile, and enjoy.

The Downside (Because There’s Always One)

1. They’re Not Cheap

Let’s be real — planners are professionals, and they charge for their time and skill. If you're already stretched thin, this might feel like an added pressure.

2. You Might Lose a Bit of Control

If you’re the kind of person who loves planning, spreadsheets, and Pinterest boards, handing things over might be hard. You’ll still have a say, but some people prefer doing it all themselves.

3. You Still Have Homework

Hiring a planner doesn’t mean you can completely check out. You’ll still need to make decisions and communicate your style — they’re not mind-readers (unfortunately).

4. Not All Planners Are a Good Fit

It’s like dating — some planners are super detail-oriented, others more laid-back. You need one that gets your vibe. Otherwise, you might end up more stressed than when you started.

So… Should You Get One?

Here’s a quick gut-check:

You probably want a planner if:

• You work full-time and don’t have hours to plan every detail

• You’re having a big wedding (or one with multiple locations)

• You’re getting married far from home

• You want the whole thing to feel organised but not overwhelming

You might skip it if:

• You’re having a chill, intimate wedding

• You love planning and want to do it all yourself

• You’ve got friends or family helping out

• You’re trying to keep costs low and simple

Final Word

Hiring a wedding planner isn’t about doing things “right.” It’s about doing what works for you. Some couples love the process and don’t mind the chaos. Others just want someone else to keep things on track so they can focus on what really matters — getting married.

Whatever you choose, just make sure it helps make the experience less stressful and more joyful.